Sancuso

"The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Cyramza (ramucirumab) to treat patients with advanced stomach cancer or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, a form of cancer located in the region where the esophagus joins the stomach./"...

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using granisetron (Sancuso)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to granisetron.

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before using transdermal granisetron, tell your doctor if you have:

a stomach or intestinal disorder;

if you have recently had stomach or intestinal surgery; or

if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any type of medicated skin patch.

FDA pregnancy category B. Granisetron is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether granisetron passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not use transdermal granisetron on anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I use transdermal granisetron (Sancuso)?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Apply the granisetron skin patch 24 to 48 hours before your chemotherapy is scheduled to start. To use the patch, open the sealed pouch and remove the protective liner. Apply the transdermal patch to a clean, dry area on the outer side of your upper arm. Avoid placing the patch on skin that is red, irritated or damaged.

Press the patch onto the skin and press it down firmly with your fingers. Make sure the patch is well sealed around the edges.

Leave the patch in place and wear it for at least 24 hours after your chemotherapy ends. You may continue wearing the skin patch for up to 7 days if needed, depending on your chemotherapy schedule. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not cut or trim the granisetron skin patch.

If the patch falls off, try sticking it back on. If it does not stay on, replace it with a new one and wear it for the rest of your patch-wearing time. Do not change your schedule, even if you apply a new patch to replace one that has fallen off.

After removing a patch, fold it in half so it sticks together and throw it away in a place where children or pets cannot get to it.

Do not use granisetron during a time when you are not having chemotherapy, unless your doctor has told you to.

Keep each granisetron skin patch in its sealed pouch until you are ready to use it. Store the pouches at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.